As fall arrives in Hickory, NC, and the weather cools, many of us spend more time indoors, making it an ideal season to focus on indoor air quality (IAQ). Better air quality can contribute to a healthier, more comfortable home as we start shutting windows and turning on our heating systems. Here are some practical ways to improve your home's IAQ this fall. 1. Change Your HVAC Filters Regularly One of the simplest ways to improve IAQ is by regularly changing your HVAC system's air filters. During the fall, more airborne particles like dust, pollen, and pet dander circulate, and a clean filter can effectively trap these. A dirty filter, however, can restrict airflow and allow contaminants to enter your indoor air. We recommend checking and replacing your filters every 1-3 months, especially if you have pets or family members with allergies. 2. Schedule a Professional HVAC System Tune-Up A seasonal tune-up keeps your HVAC system running smoothly, improving energy efficiency and indoor air quality. During a fall inspection, our technicians check for signs of dirt, mold, or dust buildup within the system that can compromise air quality. Cleaning these components reduces the chance of circulating allergens and improves the overall efficiency of your heating system. 3. Clean Air Ducts for Dust-Free Airflow Air ducts can accumulate dust, allergens, and even mold, which can then circulate throughout your home. Fall is an ideal time to consider air duct cleaning, especially if you’ve noticed increased dust around your home or if it’s been a while since your last cleaning. Clean air ducts can make a noticeable difference in IAQ, reducing the allergens and particles that often cause fall allergies. 4. Use a Humidifier to Maintain Balanced Humidity As temperatures drop, the air inside your home can become dry, which affects both comfort and IAQ. Balanced humidity (ideally between 30-50%) helps to minimize issues like respiratory irritation and prevents allergens like dust mites from thriving. Using a humidifier can help keep your home's air comfortable and healthy, especially as you start to run the heat more consistently. 5. Consider Installing an Air Purifier Air purifiers can be an excellent addition to your home, especially during fall when allergens and airborne pollutants can build up indoors. A whole-home air purifier can filter out contaminants such as pet dander, pollen, mold spores, and even some bacteria and viruses. Installing an air purifier that works with your HVAC system provides round-the-clock filtration, helping you breathe easier throughout the season. 6. Incorporate Natural Ventilation When Possible Though it’s tempting to keep windows closed as the weather cools, opening them for even a few minutes a day can help improve IAQ by reducing indoor pollutants and refreshing the air. On mild days, try airing out your home for 10-15 minutes to let fresh air in and stale air out. This can reduce the concentration of indoor allergens and pollutants. 7. Limit Indoor Pollutants Fall is also a time when candles, fireplaces, and gas stoves are used more frequently, each of which can emit pollutants into the air. To improve IAQ, consider choosing natural, unscented candles, ensuring your fireplace is well-ventilated, and running the range hood when cooking. Being mindful of these sources helps to reduce airborne contaminants and maintains better air quality. 8. Add Houseplants to Filter the Air Naturally Houseplants are a natural way to boost indoor air quality by absorbing toxins and releasing clean oxygen. Plants like spider plants, peace lilies, and snake plants are excellent choices for low-light fall days and require minimal care. Just be sure to avoid overwatering, as damp soil can lead to mold growth, which could worsen indoor air quality. Start Improving Your Indoor Air Quality Today! At Foothills Heating & Air, we’re dedicated to helping families in Hickory, NC create comfortable, healthy homes. By taking these simple steps this fall, you can breathe easier and enjoy a cleaner indoor environment. For personalized advice or to schedule a tune-up, filter replacement, or duct cleaning, feel free to reach out to our team today. To learn more about our indoor air quality service and how we can help your Hickory, NC home IAQ, check out our indoor air quality service page today!

As the summer heat gives way to the crisp, cool air of fall here in Hickory, NC, it’s time to start thinking about preparing your HVAC system for the change in seasons. At Foothills Heating & Air, we understand how important it is to keep your home comfortable year-round. To help you make a smooth transition from cooling to heating, we’ve put together a list of practical tips to get your HVAC system ready for fall. 1. Schedule a Fall HVAC Maintenance Check One of the best ways to ensure your heating system is in top condition is to schedule a professional maintenance check. Our team at Foothills Heating & Air will thoroughly inspect your HVAC system, clean the components, and identify any issues that could become problematic as temperatures drop. Routine maintenance helps your system run more efficiently and can prevent unexpected breakdowns when you need your heat the most. 2. Change Your Air Filters Air filters should be changed every 1-3 months, depending on your usage and the type of filter you use. After a long summer of keeping your home cool, your filters are likely clogged with dust, dirt, and other airborne particles. A dirty filter can restrict airflow, reduce efficiency, and lead to poor indoor air quality. Make it a habit to check and replace your filters regularly to ensure your system is operating at peak performance. 3. Adjust Your Thermostat Settings With the weather cooling down, it’s time to adjust your thermostat settings for fall. If you’re using a programmable thermostat, set it to gradually lower the temperature while you’re sleeping or away from home to save on energy costs. Consider upgrading to a smart thermostat if you haven’t already. Smart thermostats offer greater control and can automatically adjust based on your schedule, helping you maintain a comfortable home without wasting energy. 4. Clean and Inspect Your Ductwork The ductwork in your home is responsible for distributing warm or cool air throughout your space. Over time, dust, debris, and even mold can accumulate in your ducts, impacting both the efficiency of your system and your indoor air quality. Have your ductwork professionally inspected and cleaned as needed. Sealing any leaks in your ducts will also help prevent heat loss and improve energy efficiency. 5. Test Your Heater Before You Need It The last thing you want is to turn on your heater for the first chilly night of the season only to find it’s not working. Test your heating system early to make sure everything is functioning properly. Turn it on and let it run for a short period to ensure warm air is coming from your vents. If you notice any strange noises or smells, contact Foothills Heating & Air to diagnose and address the issue right away. 6. Check for Drafts and Insulate as Needed Drafty windows and doors can let warm air escape and cold air enter, forcing your HVAC system to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. Check for drafts around your home and seal any gaps with weather stripping or caulking. Adding insulation to areas like attics or basements can also help keep the warm air inside, reducing the strain on your heating system and lowering energy costs. 7. Clear the Area Around Your Outdoor Unit If you have a heat pump or central air system, make sure to clear any leaves, twigs, or other debris from around your outdoor unit. Fall is notorious for falling leaves that can get caught in your unit, reducing its efficiency and potentially causing damage. Keep a two-foot clearance around the unit to allow for proper airflow and prevent blockages. 8. Consider Upgrading an Older System If your heating system is more than 10-15 years old, it may be time to consider an upgrade. Older systems tend to be less efficient, costing you more in energy bills and repairs. Investing in a new, energy-efficient system can help you save money in the long run and provide reliable comfort throughout the colder months. Check out our products page to learn more about some of the energy efficient heating and air conditioning equipment we carry and install. Trust Foothills Heating & Air for Your Fall HVAC Needs Preparing your HVAC system for fall is essential for keeping your home comfortable and your energy bills in check as temperatures start to dip. If you need help with seasonal maintenance, repairs, or system upgrades, our experienced team at Foothills Heating & Air is here for you. We proudly serve Hickory and the surrounding areas, providing reliable HVAC services to ensure your system is ready for whatever weather comes your way. Contact us today to schedule your fall maintenance appointment or to learn more about how we can help keep your home comfortable all season long!